Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and sometimes the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Having a hysterectomy that includes removal of the ovaries causes menopause if the woman is not already postmenopausal. Hormone replacement therapy after a hysterectomy can treat the symptoms of the sudden onset of menopause, but this treatment is not appropriate for all women.
Types
Hormone replacement therapy may contain estrogen only, which is most effective for women who have had a hysterectomy, or a combination of estrogen and progestin.
Delivery Methods
Hormone replacement therapy can be delivered into the body through the skin such as a patch or topical cream, through the vagina or taken as a pill.
Physical Effects
Hot flashes and night sweats that happen after a hysterectomy can be reduced or even prevented by hormone replacement therapy.
Sexual Effects
According to the Mayo Clinic, hormone replacement therapy after a hysterectomy can reduce sexual side effects such as vaginal dryness and painful sexual intercourse.
Benefits
Women who take hormone replacement therapy after a hysterectomy decrease their risk of developing cancer of the colon and osteoporosis, which causes bone fractures in postmenopausal women.
Risks
The risks of using hormone replacement therapy include a higher chance of developing breast cancer, having a stroke, blood clots or heart attack.
Warning
Women who have had breast cancer, stroke or a heart attack should not use hormone replacement therapy to treat the side effects of a hysterectomy.
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